MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Withdrawal of the Equal Treatment Directive – E-001151/2025

Question for written answer  E-001151/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Estelle Ceulemans (S&D)

Europe has always been at the forefront of the fight against discrimination. However, a directive that would ensure equal treatment for all regardless of race, ethnic background, religion and beliefs, disability, age and sexual orientation has been withdrawn from the work programme.

• 1.Why has this commitment been retracted?
• 2.According to the 2023 Eurobarometer, one in five Europeans had experienced discrimination in the 12 months leading up to the survey. This reality cannot be ignored. The directive aimed to ensure equal protection in all areas: work, housing, education and access to services. Many Member States and organisations continue to support this directive. However, we are being told that ‘progress is unlikely’. But is this any reason to give up?
• 3.Equal treatment is not an option, it is one of the European Union’s fundamental principles. It is time not only to relaunch this directive, but to also strengthen it so that it becomes a binding instrument, ensuring effective implementation in all Member States. Is the Commission ready to re-open discussions on restoring this directive and making it a fully effective legal tool to ensure protection against discrimination?

Submitted: 19.3.2025